ASTANA – Five military officials have been detained as part of a pretrial investigation into the deaths of service members during a military exercise in the Mangystau Region, Deputy Interior Minister Sanzhar Adilov said at a Sept. 25 government commission meeting in Aktau.
The meeting reviewed the progress of the investigation and measures to support the families of the deceased service members and those affected by the tragedy. Adilov said the Military Investigative Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs is conducting a pretrial investigation into the deaths.
“Five officials have been detained and placed in the temporary detention facility in Aktau: the chief of staff and first deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Naval Forces of the Armed Forces, two commanders of military units, the commander of a marine infantry company and the commander of the boat,” Adilov said.
He added that investigative and procedural measures are continuing, including the necessary examinations. Investigators will provide a legal assessment of the actions of all persons involved and establish the full circle of suspects.
Aid to families to be distributed transparently
Chair of the government commission Kanat Bozumbayev said the state would fully meet its obligations to support the families of the deceased service members. Legally guaranteed payments will be made without delays, while responsible specialists will be assigned to each family to provide ongoing individual support.
The commission also thanked members of the Kazakhstan Khalyk Kenesi, Kurultai deputies, political parties, entrepreneurs, and other citizens for their support. Funds raised through a special fund have reached the required level, and the fundraising campaign has been closed.
A special commission headed by Bekmurat Zhusipov, a member of the Kazakhstan Khalyk Kenesi and chair of the Mangystau Regional Public Council, has been established to ensure transparent and targeted distribution of the funds among the families and the affected service members. Law enforcement and state bodies have been instructed to ensure strict oversight of the use of the funds.
Defense Ministry pledges accountability
Defense Minister Lieutenant General of Aviation Dauren Kosanov expressed condolences to the families of the deceased service members and said those responsible would face punishment under the law.
“We remain in constant contact with the families of the deceased and provide them with all necessary assistance and support,” he said.
The government commission continues to oversee both the investigation and assistance to the affected families. All circumstances and causes of the incident are being established, with those responsible to be held accountable in accordance with the law.
